Topical Fluorouracil: Keep Pets Away From Medicine and Treated Skin

If your pet is exposed to topical fluorouracil, call your veterinarian right away. Do not wait for symptoms. FDA¹ guidance warns that even small amounts, including licking treated skin or a medicine tube, can cause serious illness or death.¹

Check access to medicine and residue

• Store medicine and empty containers where pets cannot reach them.
• Wash your hands well after application.
• Safely dispose of or wash used applicators; prevent medicine residue on clothing, furniture or carpets.
• Keep empty tubes in a closed trash container inaccessible to pets.¹

A counter or nightstand is not necessarily out of reach: FDA¹ notes that dogs can reach these surfaces and cats can climb.¹

Ask about treated skin

Ask your prescriber whether the treated area should be covered.¹

Try: “My pet normally touches this area. What arrangements should I make while using my exact prescription?”

Keep your veterinarian’s contact details available alongside the medicine information.

Skin, Head to Toe includes a visit script. Use it to organize household concerns and questions for your prescriber. See the book.